Peugeot 307CC

Top down or up, Peugeot's 307CC proves it's two cars in one ... and this year's hands-down darling of the cafe latte set.

16 March 2011Bob Jennings

Peugeot 307CC Photo:

Peugeot 307CC Photo:

Top down or up, Peugeot's 307CC proves it's two cars in one ... and this year's hands-down darling of the cafe latte set.

Pigeonhole: This season's hot fashion item for those who dare to go topless. When required, the cover-up is quick and discreet.

Philosophy: Two cars in one; a full convertible or a snug, steel-roofed coupe, with the bonus of four seats.

Trivia: Peugeot's model-numbering system has a central zero with a single-digit number on either side. The first number indicates the family to which the vehicle belongs, smaller numbers indicating smaller cars. The second digit -- always zero -- is the link between the first number and the third figure, which indicates the generation of the model.

What the brochure says: "Underneath its ingenious folding steel roof and flowing lines lies a luxury car that accommodates four adults in supreme comfort." Four adults? Let's try two adults in comfort, plus two in rather less comfort.

Who's buying it: Peugeot reckons it will be males and females, aged 35 to 45, management or professionals.

Why you'd buy it: You just love watching that steel roof split, fold and disappear into the boot, all in 25 seconds. When the roof's up, it's as snug as a conventional coupe. When it's down, it's a nice convertible remarkably free of noise.

Why you wouldn't: Standard 100kW engine has a lot of work to do hauling around 1457 kilograms; performance is modest. Leg room in the back is restricted, head room a little tight with the roof up. Boot space is just adequate when the roof is folded down.

Safety: Dual front and side airbags. Pop-up roll-over bars behind the back seats. Strengthened windscreen surround. Active front head restraints. Traction control and stability control are standard.

Cabin: Snug, with minimal wind buffeting even with the roof down.

Seating: Well shaped and height adjustable in the front. Rear seat is comfortable and although leg and head space can be tight, it is useable.

Engine: Two available; one with 100kW and the Sport -- $7000 dearer -- which has 130kW. Both are 2.0-litre four-cylinders, and run smoothly.

Transmission: Five-speed manuals on test were slick to use. Four-speed automatic might be more convenient, but it's only available with the 100kW engine.

Steering: Sharp rack and pinion, and it has a nimble, 10.7 metre turning circle.

Ride: Expect a supple ride well able to cope with our urban surfaces.

Handling: Competent. Again, a Peugeot trait, but it's not in the tight, sports car class, for which most buyers will probably be grateful.

Fuel: 11.5 litres/100 kilometres in the city, 6.2 litres on the highway, say the factory figures. Our mainly country driving test over 400 kilometres returned 9.2 litres for the standard car, about 9.6 litres for the Sport.

Brakes: Four-wheel discs with anti-lock standard. They do the job well.

Build: Pretty good, although there was the odd trim rattle and door squeak when driving on lumpy roads.